NJ trooper killed after striking deer laid to rest

UPPER FREEHOLD, N.J. (WPVI) -- The funeral for a New Jersey State Police trooper killed over the weekend after striking a deer in his cruiser took place at St. Matthias Church in Somerset.

The funeral for 24-year-old Anthony Raspa began at 11 a.m. Thursday.

State police officials have said Raspa and partner Gene Hong were patrolling eastbound on a stretch of I-195 in Monmouth County when their Ford Crown Victoria struck the deer early Saturday.

The car ran off the side of the road and hit a tree. No other vehicles were involved.

Gov. Chris Christie has ordered flags at all state buildings be lowered to half-staff on Thursday to honor Raspa.

The 29-year-old Hong was treated at a hospital for cuts and a neck injury.